Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Evaluations

At Authentic Growth Counseling, we provide clinical evaluations to determine whether an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) may be an appropriate part of a client’s mental health support plan.

Emotional Support Animals can offer comfort, companionship, and emotional regulation for individuals experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and other conditions that impact daily functioning.

Our therapists conduct a professional evaluation to assess whether an ESA may provide therapeutic benefit for a client’s emotional well-being.

Schedule Evaluation Consultation

ESA Evaluation Process

To ensure ethical and appropriate care, ESA letters are only provided following a clinical evaluation.

The process includes:

✔ Completion of an ESA intake questionnaire

✔ A clinical evaluation session with a licensed therapist

✔ Assessment of mental health symptoms and functional impact

✔ Determination of whether an ESA is clinically appropriate

If clinically indicated, documentation may be provided to support housing accommodation requests.

Please note that ESA letters are not guaranteed and are issued only when a therapist determines they are clinically appropriate.

Important Information

• ESA letters are primarily used for housing accommodations under the Fair Housing Act
• Emotional Support Animals are not the same as service animals
• Airlines and public places may have different policies regarding ESAs
• Clients are responsible for the behavior and care of their animal

Schedule an ESA Evaluation

If you believe an Emotional Support Animal may support your mental health and well-being, our clinicians can help assess whether it may be an appropriate part of your care.

📍 Coral Gables Office
💻 Virtual appointments available

What is an Emotional Support Animal?

An Emotional Support Animal is an animal that provides emotional or psychological support to individuals with a mental health condition. Unlike service animals, ESAs are not required to have specialized training.

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), individuals with qualifying mental health conditions may request reasonable housing accommodations for an Emotional Support Animal with documentation from a licensed healthcare professional.